“Unsocial” network sites for career networking

Millions of employees today would like to network for their next career moves in private. A novel idea, yes?

That’s how it used to be in the “old days” before LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. And now the pendulum is swinging back to more confidential, selective and strategic networking for career change.

LinkedIn is an incredibly powerful tool for connecting with hiring companies and recruiters. So are Facebook and Twitter. Even Facebook recognizes the trend towards more privacy, and CEO Mark Zuckerbergrecently announced“Anonymous Login.” It gives users the ability to avoid sharing any data already on Facebook with an outside app.

“With the new login, I can sign in on my own terms,” Zuckerberg said. “As a developer, this is going to help more people feel comfortable signing into your apps and engaging with them.”

“Unsocial” networking enables selectivity and, yes, even privacy. You may not want everyone to know your business or what you are targeting as your next career move. You may want to talk to specific people about certain issues rather than broadcast your queries and concerns across the web. Additionally, you may want some private assistance or access to online networking groups and educational events.

My recommendation: Unsocial network sites should be an “and” not an “or” to your full job search strategy.

Sites like Netshare.com have built an unsocial network site for executives, whether they are in job search mode or not.

Unlike LinkedIn, which is akin to the hot new club where you want to be seen, Netshare, started in 1991, has created a smoke-filled backroom where deals get done. Sure, you want the exposure of a big social network to build personal brand awareness, but the real networking goes on behind the scenes.

Dana Manciagli is a career expert, speaker and private coach. She has spent more than 30 years as a Fortune 500 sales and marketing executive, now retired after more than a decade at Microsoft. Dana is the author of the book, "Cut the Crap, Get a Job!" and a prolific blogger. She sits on the worldwide board of Junior Achievement and has her MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management.